Overcoming Gym Anxiety: Building Confidence in Your Fitness Journey
Gym anxiety is an increasingly common theme in the fitness industry and a real barrier to leading a healthier life in the community. Google searches for ‘Gym Confidence’ rise 1’600% and ‘getting over gym anxiety’ rise 300% on average EVERY SINGLE YEAR.
A few of the main issues are; feeling uncomfortable in the environment, the feeling of being stared at as a woman, and not wanting to be embarrassed in public due to lack of gym knowledge.
At the end of the day, everyone is nervous or uncomfortable at the beginning, this is a normal feeling.
However it is important not to punish yourself by not being able to receive the amazing effect of exercise due to issues that can be avoided or tackled.
Try some of these key ways to avoid the gym anxiety:
Join with a friend, accountability
Work out with a trainer to build confidence
Try classes to build relationships and confidence. You’ll soon realise that being a beginner is incredibly normal!
If you are being watched then alert trainers immediately. All gyms should proactively combat this and create a safe space.
Practice positive self talk. “Where can I be if I committed to working out 4 times a week”. “I am trying something new, it is challenging but exciting”. “I cant wait to see how much progress I can make in the next month”.
Try a smaller, local gym. These gyms seem to care a lot more about each member and their community, you will feel more welcomed and accepted.
Remember that everyone who goes to the gym is there for the same reason: Self-improvement. Be proud of yourself for wanting to be healthier and know that everyone else around you is in the same boat.
Find your community to create real life changing results in your anxiety and confidence. You will connect with people on an incredibly different level and realise that you are not alone on this journey. You will create lifelong friends through this, people who will keep you accountable, encouraged, positive and make you feel comfortable.